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After the verdicts, deputy chief constable Winton Keenan, of Northumbria Police, said: “We condemn, completely, the actions of DC Christie. His behaviour demonstrates a complete disregard for what the vast majority of police officers stand for and is completely at odds with the ethics and values we expect in Northumbria Police.

“It is hugely disappointing that his appalling behaviour has not only let down the public, so badly, and also his colleagues.

“The public must be able to trust their public services and this case should send out the clear message that we will seek out and take swift, decisive action against anyone who abuses that trust.”